If you have an upcoming dental procedure, then you’re likely to need some kind of dental anesthetic to help you through it. Before your procedure, it helps to talk to your dentist and research online to understand what will happen during your procedure and what kind of anesthetic you will receive. This can help you prepare properly for your appointment and assuage any anxiety about it.

Types of anesthesia

Most dental procedures require a local anesthetic. This is generally the best choice when the procedure is short and simple, such as filling a cavity or extracting a tooth. The affected area will become numb under local anesthetic but you will remain conscious. Typically, this kind of anesthetic is injected into the gums, or it can be applied topically using a gel, cream, or spray.

General anesthetic may be required for longer and more complex dental procedures. Under this form of anesthesia, you become unconscious and will not feel or remember anything during the procedure. This is typically administered intravenously or by inhaling a gas through a face mask.

Another option is sedation, which can help to relax patients who are anxious about their procedure, as well as preventing painful sensations during the procedure. Sedation can range from mild to deep depending on the complexity of the procedure or the severity of the patient’s anxiety.

Are there any side effects?

After receiving local anesthesia, some numbness around the area may persist after the procedure, which can cause some drooling and difficulty talking or eating. However, this should wear off quickly and any other side effects are extremely rare.

General anesthetic can come with more side effects, although it is still safe for the most part. Some people may experience symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headaches, tiredness, and dry mouth after waking up from general anesthesia.

Side effects and complications can become more likely in patients with certain health conditions or who are taking certain medications, so be sure to discuss this with your dentist before making a decision. Also, mention any allergies to medications that you are aware of.

Other things you need to know

Before the procedure, make sure you follow any guidelines given to you by your dentist, for example, any advice on what to eat or drink before and after your appointment. Depending on the type of anesthesia used, you may not be able to drive yourself home after your procedure, so make sure you arrange for someone to pick you up if this is the case.

If you need dental treatment in Advance, NC, or have any more questions about dental anesthesia, then contact Advance Family Dental for our support.